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Immigration Framework

We unravel the complexities of immigration regulations, simplifying processes and focusing on solutions, every time.

"Very good response times, excellent acument and knowledge, and realistic advice" - Legal 500

For many years the UK government maintained a Points Based System ("PBS") for the control of entry to the UK for foreign nationals wishing to invest, set up a business, take employment (whether temporary or permanent) or study in the UK. The scheme developed and changed over time as successive governments redefined their approach to immigration policy. The points based model, and supporting infrastructure, also form the foundation of the January 2021 launch of a new framework for immigration control following the Brexit transition and implementation phase.

The UK’s Points Based System, originally launched in 2008, was designed across five tiers with the aim of being transparent, objective and easy to use. A decade later, PBS had morphed into a highly-complex and intricate network of rules, criteria, policy and processes. By 2020 it was no longer fit for purpose.

In 2021 the schemes were altered substantially in line with post-Brexit immigration policy.

We convert these complex government rules and processes into streamlined advice and assistance, providing our clients with confidence and peace of mind.

The schemes are full of pitfalls for institutional and individual users and the consequences of making a false step are burdensome and expensive.

Our team has extensive experience in all aspects of PBS and we will guide applicants and sponsors through every step of the process through to entry to the UK and long-term compliance and residence.

News

Spotlight on EMEA Series: Ireland

Commencing on 2nd September 2024 the Irish Government has signed into legislation the Employment Permits Act 2024. Employers should note these changes and ensure that they make the necessary adjustments for any impact on sponsored employees.  The changes are largely seen as positive and remove several administrative burdens for employers.  In a bid to ensure…

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Home Office Error with Going Rate Thresholds

As part of Skilled Worker visa application process, sponsors are required to assign each role to the appropriate code using the Standard Occupational Classification (“SOC”) system. Each code sets a salary threshold known as the “going rate”. In April 2024, the Home Office implemented a revised SOC 2020 list, in line with the changes to…

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Home Office Releases UK Immigration Statistics 2023 – 2024

Over the past few years the numbers of people coming to the UK has been a significant feature of political debate in the UK. The 12-month period saw the issue of 1.16 million visas granted for work, study or family reasons. Whilst the number of passenger arrivals to the UK has increased by 11% over…

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